It can be hard to know how to deal with a loved one who is going through a mental health crisis. Especially if you have never had any training to handle such situations. The fear of unknowingly saying something that will make the situation worse is real. No matter how good your intentions are, one wrong statement can do more damage than you can imagine. It can push someone to shut down even more or add a stigma to their situation. Being mindful of your words can work wonders in such situations. Here are 6 things you should never say to someone:
“Things could be much worse”
People with mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety, often don’t have any triggers. It is not a situation that brings them to where they are. By comparing their problems to others’, you can make them feel like you’re belittling their experiences and feelings. It can also make them feel guilty for having difficulties. The idea is to comfort someone, not make them feel worse about their situation. Yes, things could be a lot worse, but they could also have been a lot better.
“Just Get Out of It”
Saying these dismissive words can make someone feel that mental illnesses should be ignored, endured, or suffered in silence. None of which is going to help them. Don’t ask them to “cheer up” or “loose up” either. Mental health problems cannot be “eliminated”. They also cannot be turned off with a flick of a switch.
“Therapy is for the weak”
If someone you know wants to seek therapy to get better, encourage them by showing your support. Such a statement may not only make them feel slighted, but may also attach a negative stigma against seeking help. Just as people with physical illnesses visit a health professional, anyone experiencing a mental health crisis should also seek help.
“All you need to do is find something to do”
Distraction never works, even temporarily. It could give that illusion for a short time. The idea is to get to the root of the problem and not ignore it. Repressing such emotions can make the whole situation worse. Remember, ignoring a problem will not make it go away.
“Stop focusing on the bad things”
Never tell anyone to look on the bright side while ignoring everything that is going wrong. It doesn’t matter how well intentioned it was. The person could end up feeling even worse about himself and her situation. They may even take it as a sign of another failure. Also, someone with a serious mental illness doesn’t focus on the “bad stuff” on purpose.
“Everyone has struggles”
Of course, everyone thinks that their situation is the worst. But there is no need for this kind of comparison when it comes to being an empath. This can cause the person to withdraw and hide the problems from her. You don’t want to push them into a corner where they feel like they don’t have any support system.
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